John Doherty: Murdered RUC man’s memorial moved to new location

The service was attended by representatives from both the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and An Garda Síochána (the Irish police service).

Mr Doherty was the first Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) officer killed in the Republic of Ireland during the Troubles.

John’s brother Terry Doherty told BBC Radio Foyle’s North West Today programme that the memorial stone would now go on permanent display at a British Legion Hall with a photograph of John rather than be placed back at his graveside.

“We wouldn’t want to give those individuals the opportunity or satisfaction to desecrate the grave,” he told the programme.

He said those who had carried out the vandalism would never win and that “good will always overcome evil”.

“That stone and a picture of John will be hung proudly in that hall long after you’ve gone,” he said.